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LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder ordered U.S. flags throughout the state to be lowered to half-staff in honor of U.S. Naval Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Heath M. Robinson, on Friday, Nov. 4, at the request of the family. Flags should be returned to full-staff on Saturday, Nov. 5.

Robinson, 34, of Petoskey, was among 30 service members killed on Aug. 6 while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Their helicopter was shot down by enemy forces in Afghanistan's Wardak province.

"My sincerest condolences go to Senior Chief Robinson's wife, daughter, family members and friends at this time of great loss and sorrow," said Snyder. "His sacrifice and service for our nation will always be remembered."

Robinson was assigned to SEAL Team THREE, from March 6, 2000, to April 12, 2002. After completing one tour, he transferred to SEAL Team SEVEN from April 12, 2002, to April 2, 2004. He began a rigorous selection and training course with Naval Special Warfare Development Group (NSWDG). Nine months after beginning this training process, Senior Chief Robinson was selected to be a NSWDG Operator and completed numerous deployments.

A memorial fund has been set up in memory of Senior Chief Petty Officer Robinson. Donations can be forwarded to the Navy Federal Credit Union in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the U. S. flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.